Natural Reserves Specialist

• Full Time, Permanent
• Commencing ASAP
• Flexible Work Options available, such as a 9-day fortnight
• One of the Fastest Growing Local Governments in Australia

About us

Located in Mundijong just 45 kilometres from the Perth CBD on the picturesque backdrop of the Darling Scarp, the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale is one of the fastest growing local governments in Australia with approximately two families moving into our Shire every day. With the Tonkin Highway extending to Mundijong Road as well as a new Byford train station as part of the Metronet project, our Shire is growing at lightning speed.

Over the next 10 years our population is expected to double, and our focus is to sustainably manage this growth while protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of our region. We're energised and excited for the opportunities ahead for our people, and the Serpentine Jarrahdale community. If this sounds like something you want to be part of, come join us!

About the Role

The Natural Reserves Specialist position is a dynamic role that contributes to sustainable maintenance development of Council reserves by assisting with the preparation and implementation of reserve management plans and development strategies. This role manages approximately 50 reserves across the Shire, to maintain and improve the ecological values of these areas, as well as provides environmental advice across different business units of the Shire.

Some of your other functions required will include:

• Provide natural area management advice on planning applications to protect natural assets.
• Develop and implements programs for the control of environmental and agricultural biosecurity risks on reserves.
• Coordinate the implementation of the 'Free Verge Plants' and 'Herbicide' Programs.
• Assists and liaise with recognised Landcare, community and environmental groups with reserve management.
• Consider and evaluate development proposals from individuals, community groups, Landcare and others for improvements or developments on Council reserves.
• Coordinate and oversees reserve management for Council.
• Assist with lease and licence schedules for Shire reserves.
• Provide strategic advice regarding the development and management of the Shire's trails network including liaison with trails groups.
• Secure and manage grant funding for projects on Council reserves.
• Liaising with other internal teams within Operations with activities on Shire reserves, such as with the Fire mitigation team, Parks and Gardens and Civil Maintenance teams. Also, liaison with other departments such as Development and infrastructure Services and environmental officer.

About you

We are looking for a someone holding tertiary qualifications or extensive experience in environmental science or natural resource management, with knowledge of environmental laws and regulations. You should have the demonstrated ability to analyse land management problems and work towards their solution. You will be able to work alongside multi-disciplinary teams, other professionals, and community groups. You will be happy working cooperatively with other teams to deliver project and maintenance services and managing planning elements.

If you feel your skills and experience meet the expectations of this role, then you need to apply.

For further information on the requirements of the position, please review the attached position description.

The Important Stuff

The position attracts a salary in the range $80,000 to $87,000 per annum (dependent on skills and experience).

Working in a fabulous environment with a quiet rural outlook is not everything so there are some other great benefits.

• Free onsite parking
• Free wellness programs, free local gym membership, health insurance discounts, annual flu vaccination and skin cancer screening.
• Two additional days off per year
• Flexible Work arrangements including 9-day fortnight or 19-day months.
• If you choose to contribute additional super, we will match up to 3% as a co-contribution.

We are looking for someone who is excited by the challenges of this role and our Shire. In return, we offer you the opportunity to make a real contribution to the community. We recognise that we are strengthened by diversity and are committed to providing a work environment in which everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage all applications, as part of a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Where do I apply?

Submit your resume online and make sure you include your cover letter telling us why you are the best fit for the role, by no later than 5pm on Friday, 31 January 2025. We recommend you apply as soon as possible. We encourage applications from all areas, including Mandurah, Peel and Pinjarra regions.

Please note that we reserve the right to commence interviews or cease advertising prior to this date - don't wait, apply now!